21 Mar Valentino Couture Spring 2019

Italian fashion label Valentino created a dreamlike ode to spring on the catwalk in Paris on Wednesday, as models appeared to float down the runway in a series of vaporous dresses adorned with shimmering flowers, oversized ruffles and feathers galore.

But softer pastel tones and delicate floral patterns dominated other looks, as celebrities including Celine Dion looked on in the audience.

Models wore feathers on their eyelashes in a presentation that almost resembled an extravagant masked ball.

When Naomi closed the show wearing “Chocolate Dhalia,” the name Piccioli’s atelier staff gave to her organdy and organza dress, the rapturous crowd reaction indicated that at that moment, few people were mulling, “But is it modern?” Extreme beauty shuts down the argument.

The brand has long been go-to for Hollywood movie stars, with creations by its now retired founder Valentino Garavani, whose magenta red gowns became a signature trait, featuring heavily during awards season.

Current creative chief Pierpaolo Piccioli’s bouffant dresses, and oversized designs in sumptuous taffeta and vibrant colours have earned him plaudits from a fashion forward crowd and a clutch of awards.